House Hunters Renovation

Little Houses, Big Costs

After dating for two years, Austin, Texas couple Jamie and Emilee are ready to take the next step in their relationship and buy their first home together. She's looking for a small midcentury modern house with a chef's kitchen where she can show off her culinary education. But he's looking for a larger Craftsman style home with a separate laundry area, since he's very particular about clean clothes. Finding all that plus a big backyard in the city's popular Central Austin area will be a challenge for their agent Rachelle Anselmi. And the challenges will keep on coming once they start renovations and learn that they may have to entirely rethink their plans. With help from designer Sarah Stacey and contractor Cesar Fuentes, these first-timers will learn the renovation ropes. And if the structural issues, budget overages, and frustrations of learning to cope don't overwhelm them, they'll wind up with a transformed home where they can start their future together.